The Toastmaster at your wedding reception

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TOASTMASTERS pamphlet "A
TOUCH OF CLASS" outlines the general capabilities and functions of a
Toastmaster.

My own normal routine for a wedding, which
will apply to your own "special Day", is as follows:

I arrive at the reception venue at the same
time as you are entering the church. I then have ample time to familiarise
myself with the layout, meet and liaise with the banqueting manager or head
waiter, check seating arrangements, table plan, place cards, menus, guest book
and pen, bouquets/presentations, test the public address system if
available, locate toilets, cloakrooms and telephones.

Finally one last check of the information sheets that you will
have filled in and I am nearly ready!

Having changed into my Regalia, I am then
ready to greet the bridal party on arrival and to assist the photographer and
the video operator with arrival photographs, ensuring the best use of available
time before assembling the receiving line along with liaising with the catering
staff for the welcome drinks to the guests.

After all the guests have been announced
and received, I maintain a liaison with the banqueting manager and call the
guests to their places at their table at the appropriate time. I then escort
the bride and groom to the top table with the appropriate
"Receive and Acclaim Ceremony".

During the meal, I keep a watchful eye on
the proceedings to ensure no delays and to be on hand for the host for any
special requirements. I ensure that the guest book is circulating and I arrange
the cake cutting ceremony at the agreed time ensuring the video operator is
aware of all movements and obtains a good record.

I announce the speakers in turn after the
meal is over and the champagne is poured.

Preparations for dancing start soon after the
best man has finished speaking and my duties usually conclude with the
announcement of the bride and bridegroom onto the dance floor to encourage the
dancing to their special music.